Fort Lincoln was built during the summer of 1861 as an outer defense of the city of Washington. These earthworks are a portion of the original fortifications that made up the fort. It was named in honor of President Lincoln by General Order No. 18, A.G.O., Sept. 30, 1861. The brigade of Major General Joseph Hooker was the first to occupy this area, and Captain T.S. Paddock held immediate command of the fort.